Celebrate Black History month at the Museum of the American Revolution

This February, the Museum of the American Revolution is celebrating Black History Month with a packed lineup of events, performances, and tours that highlight the stories of often-overlooked Black revolutionaries. From live theater and hands-on activities to thought-provoking talks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy while exploring a fuller picture of America’s founding.

What’s happening

• Black Voices Highlight Tour (Feb. 2): Members can dive into a special 60-minute tour of the Museum’s core exhibits, uncovering the powerful stories of people of African descent during the Revolution.
• Theatrical performances: Meet Elizabeth Freeman (Feb. 1 & 16): Hear the inspiring story of Elizabeth Freeman, who sued for her freedom—and won—in this live, first-person performance. And, Meet James Forten: Follow the journey of young James Forten, a free Black Philadelphian who chose to serve as a privateer during the war.
• Lonae A. Moore Forum (Feb. 1): Join the discussion about the Declaration of Independence and its complex legacy around equality and racial understanding.
• Living History with Leslie Bramlett (Feb. 9 & 16): Meet a living historian who’ll bring to life the stories of Hannah Archer Till and Ona Judge—two Black women who found freedom in different ways during the Revolution.
• Family fun at Revolution Place (various dates): Bring the kids to explore a lively, 18th-century-inspired discovery center with crafts, games, and hands-on activities like making hats inspired by the Rhode Island Regiment.

    Photo by J. Fusco for VISIT PHILADELPHIA.
  

Weekend tours and pop-up talks

Every Saturday and Sunday, join gallery tours and discovery carts to learn about figures like Phillis Wheatley, the first published Black female poet, or Harry Washington, who escaped enslavement to join the British army. You can even get up close with artifacts, like a musket engraved with “No Slavery,” and dive into what freedom and equality meant to different people back then.

Can’t make it in person?

The Museum’s virtual resources have you covered! Check out the award-winning Finding Freedom interactive, virtual tours, and performances like Deborah’s Choice for a deeper look at the personal stories of enslaved people during the Revolution.

The Museum is open daily, and tickets are available at AmRevMuseum.org. Save a few bucks by buying online, and remember—kids under 5 get in free.